Introduction

Textile production, one of humanity's oldest crafts, serves as a potent medium for expressing cultural heritage and philosophical concepts. This study delves into the symbolic design of everyday wear for Eastern Premier Hotel, inspired by the Adinkra symbol Fihankra. Rooted in the Akan culture of the Ashanti people of Ghana, this symbol represents security, safety, and completeness. The design aims to communicate these values artistically and culturally to the hotel's clientele.

The Significance of Fihankra

Fihankra, translating to "house/compound," is a powerful Adinkra symbol signifying security and safety. Typical of Akan architecture, a communal housing compound with a single entrance and exit embodies the concept of completeness and indivisibility. Dr. J. B. Danquah notes that Adinkra symbols carry deep theological and philosophical meanings, reflecting messages or intelligence imparted by God to souls on their earthly journey.

Fihankra's circular design reinforces its meaning of completeness and indivisibility, akin to the perfection of God, represented by a circle with no beginning or end. This symbol is closely linked to the Creator, Nyame, regarded as the All in All. The stool and skin, sacred symbols of divine authority, embody the spirit and soul of the people, further emphasizing the cultural significance of Fihankra.

Eastern Premier Hotel: Embodying Fihankra’s Philosophy

Eastern Premier Hotel, a 3-star establishment, offers comfortable accommodation, outstanding cuisine, and peaceful surroundings, promising a sense of total escape and relaxation. The hotel’s mission aligns with the philosophy of Fihankra, aiming to provide a secure and hospitable environment for its guests. The symbolic design for the hotel's everyday wear seeks to visually and philosophically communicate this mission.

Design Elements and Symbolism

The textile design incorporates the Fihankra symbol, adorned with dot and line patterns. These elements enhance the creativity of the design while preventing monotony. The dots in the center of each symbol signify that guests are special and cherished. The lines running through the symbols represent the hotel’s international clientele, emphasizing its global reach.

The design also features symbols resembling the seat of a stool, interconnected to represent unity and hospitality. In Akan culture, offering a seat to guests signifies a warm welcome. Curved lines on the top and bottom of the stool shapes indicate the cushioned comfort provided to guests, reinforcing the hotel’s commitment to ensuring their comfort.

Corporate Identity and Psychological Impact

To complete the narrative, the hotel's logo is interspersed in a half-drop pattern throughout the design. This inclusion not only identifies the organization but also reinforces its values and mission. A well-designed corporate textile can significantly influence employees' performance, instilling a sense of professionalism and confidence. The philosophical and symbolic depth of this design aims to create a positive psychological impact on the hotel's staff, enhancing their overall performance.

Conclusion

The Fihankra-inspired textile design for Eastern Premier Hotel is a profound example of how cultural symbols can be integrated into contemporary settings to convey deep philosophical meanings. By embedding the values of security, completeness, and hospitality, this design not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the hotel’s everyday wear but also reinforces its mission and identity. Such thoughtful and symbolic textile designs are essential for maintaining a strong cultural connection and fostering a positive environment for both employees and guests.